Chicken Taco Salad

Chicken Taco Salad Recipe from Mexico | Butter Busters, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Beans, and More

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Taco Salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of a classic taco with the freshness of a salad. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.

History

The origins of Chicken Taco Salad can be traced back to the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines. Tacos have been a popular dish in Mexico for centuries, while salads have long been a staple in American cuisine. By combining the two, Chicken Taco Salad was born, offering a flavorful and nutritious meal option.

Ingredients

butter Busters
1 lb (454 g) ground white chicken meat without skin
0.5 head lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
2 medium tomatoes, cut into pieces
15 oz (425 g) kidney beans, drained
1 pack taco seasoning mix
0.5 cup grated non-fat cheddar cheese or 4 oz (113 g) chopped Kraft fat-free cheese slice
hot sauce to taste
0.5 bag guilt-free baked tostado chips
1 bottle Kraft fat-free Catalina salad dressing

How to prepare

Place the chicken in a bowl and cover it with waxed paper.
Cook it in the microwave for about 5 minutes.
Remove the chicken and drain it to remove any fat.
Prepare the taco mix as directed, substituting chicken for beef.
Place lettuce, tomatoes, and chips in a large bowl.
Add drained beans, grated cheese, and salad dressing.
Mix everything well.
Serve immediately.
Add hot sauce to suit your taste.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken.
Use black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans.
Add corn, bell peppers, or onions for extra vegetables.

Notes

Ground fresh white meat skinless turkey can be used in place of the ground chicken and would save 13.6 fat grams for the whole recipe or 3.4 fat grams per serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the chicken well after cooking to remove any excess fat.

- Customize the salad with your favorite toppings such as avocado, black olives, or jalapenos.

- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your personal preference for spiciness.

- Serve the salad immediately after mixing to ensure the chips stay crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Taco Salad with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor. Pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a margarita.

Cooking Techniques

Microwaving the chicken is a quick and convenient way to cook it for this recipe. Be sure to check for doneness before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. You can also use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the components of Chicken Taco Salad ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Keep the lettuce, tomatoes, and beans separate until ready to mix.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Taco Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapenos for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Taco Salad with a light and crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Mexican beer like Corona for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chicken Taco Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Taco Salad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Taco Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Taco Salad contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Taco Salad contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Taco Salad is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (tostado chips). It may also contain soy (salad dressing). Please check ingredient labels for allergen information.

Summary

Chicken Taco Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Chicken Taco Salad is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the best of both worlds - tacos and salads. With a mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, the delicious aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, tempting my tastebuds and making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "I have a new recipe to share with you today, my dear friend," she said, pulling out a tattered old cookbook from her overflowing bookshelf. "It's a family favorite - Chicken Taco Salad."

As Maria flipped through the pages, I couldn't help but notice the handwritten notes and splatters of sauce that adorned the pages. This recipe had clearly been loved and cherished for many years. Maria explained that she had learned how to make it from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her mother, and now to her.

I watched intently as Maria gathered all the ingredients - tender chicken breast, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a colorful array of spices and seasonings. She began by marinating the chicken in a flavorful blend of garlic, cumin, chili powder, and lime juice. The smell was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

As Maria cooked the chicken to perfection, she shared stories of her family and their love for this dish. She told me about the many gatherings and celebrations where Chicken Taco Salad had been the star of the show, bringing joy and laughter to all who tasted it.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. Maria assembled the salad with care, layering the ingredients in a beautiful arrangement on a large platter. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients made my mouth water, and I eagerly dug in.

The flavors exploded in my mouth - the tangy lime, the smoky cumin, the spicy chili powder. The tender chicken was perfectly seasoned and juicy, and the crisp vegetables added a refreshing crunch. It was a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, a true masterpiece of Mexican cuisine.

As I savored every bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Maria and her generosity in sharing this treasured recipe with me. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and traditions that would last a lifetime.

Since that day, Chicken Taco Salad has become a staple in my own kitchen. I have shared the recipe with my children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition of good food and good company. Every time I make it, I think of Maria and her warm kitchen, filled with love and laughter.

And so, dear reader, I urge you to try this recipe for yourself. Let the flavors transport you to a sunny Mexican courtyard, where the air is filled with the sounds of laughter and the smell of delicious food. Embrace the tradition and the memories that come with each bite, and savor the joy that good food and good company can bring.

Bon appétit!